Getting your Ethernet connection running smoother on Windows 11 can seriously improve your online experience, whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just trying to get stuff done without lag. It’s mainly about tweaking some settings, updating your drivers, and making sure your hardware isn’t holding you back. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of swapping out a dodgy cable or adjusting a couple of options in Device Manager. Not too tricky, but funny how Windows can make it feel like a chore to get the speeds you’re paying for.
How to Make Ethernet Faster on Windows 11
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, it’s good to know what you’re trying to do. Basically, you want to make sure your network gear and settings are tuned up so you get the best speed your setup can offer. When this stuff is out of whack—like outdated drivers or dodgy cables—you’ll notice sluggish speeds even if your internet plan is lightning fast.
Method 1: Update Network Drivers
First up, old drivers often bottleneck your speed. Hit Device Manager (press Win + X or right-click the Start button and select it), then expand Network adapters. Find your Ethernet card, right-click, and choose Update driver. Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will do its thing. Sometimes it finds an update, sometimes not. If it doesn’t, check the manufacturer’s website or use a driver updater tool (like Intel’s driver assistant if that’s your chip).
Why it helps: Old drivers can slow down your hardware or cause compatibility issues, which drags your speed down. Getting the latest drivers means Windows can chat better with your Ethernet hardware.
When to do it: If you notice slowdowns, buffering on local transfers, or just think your connection isn’t performing as it should.
Result: Quicker, more stable network — hopefully close to what your hardware is capable of.
On some rigs, updating drivers only helped after a restart, so don’t forget to reboot first if needed.
Method 2: Adjust Network Settings
Next, go to Settings > Network & internet. Click on Ethernet. Under Properties, find Edit beside Configure IP assignments. Make sure it’s set to Automatic (DHCP). If not, switch it there. Easy as. Sometimes, tweaking this can give your speed a boost.
Why it helps: Manual IP configs or static IPs can mess with speed and stability. Default DHCP tends to optimise things automatically.
When to do it: After switching networks or if you’ve manually fiddled with network configs, this can sort out sluggish speeds.
Result: Faster connection setup and better throughput.
Windows sometimes resets these settings after updates, so it’s worth double-checking.
Method 3: Close Background Apps
Next up: programs running in the background that quietly munch through your bandwidth. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), then look for apps that eat network, like torrents, backup tools, or apps you’ve forgotten about. Right-click and select End task.
Why it helps: Bandwidth is limited. Background apps hogging it can slow down your main stuff.
When it applies: If speed tests look alright but real-world browsing feels sluggish or there’s lag, background apps could be to blame.
Result: Less congestion, more bandwidth for what you really want to do.
Keep in mind, some apps restart themselves, so check back if you’re still experiencing issues.
Method 4: Check Your Ethernet Cables
This one’s pretty obvious, but worth bringing up: look at your Ethernet cable for visible damage or frays. Cheap cables (Category 5) can slow things down; upgrading to Category 6 or higher is a smart move. Better wiring equals better performance.
Why it helps: A worn or low-quality cable might still connect, but speeds will suffer — especially for gigabit speeds.
When it applies: If all else looks fine but speeds are still rubbish, swap out the cable and see if things improve.
Result: Better speeds and fewer dropped connections.
And of course, sometimes it’s just a better-quality cable doing the trick — classic.
Method 5: Tweak Network Adapter Settings
Last but not least, dive into the properties of your network card. In Device Manager, find your Ethernet adapter, right-click, and select Properties. Under the Advanced tab, you’ll see options like Speed & Duplex. Set this to 1.0 Gbps Full Duplex or whatever your hardware supports. Default settings can sometimes be lower, which caps your speed.
Why it helps: Forcing your adapter to run at its max supported speed can unlock better throughput — if the hardware is up to it.
When to do it: If your gigabit connection is only showing 100 Mbps, this tweak might fix it.
Result: Max out your network speeds and enjoy a more stable connection.
Heads up: On some setups, changing this doesn’t make much difference, but on others, it’s the trick that gets you over the line.
Once you’ve done all that, a quick speed test (like Speedtest.net) should show some improvement. Sometimes, the fix is just making sure everything’s up to date and properly configured. Doesn’t always make sense why, but it’s worth a try.
Tips for Making Ethernet Faster on Windows 11
- Give your modem/router a reboot every now and then to clear out any glitches.
- Keep Windows and your drivers up to date — those updates matter.
- Use good quality Ethernet cables — don’t cut corners with cheapies.
- Position your router somewhere central, away from interference like microwaves or thick walls.
- Check your internet plan — sometimes, upscaling to a faster plan is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Ethernet slower than Wi-Fi on Windows 11?
Usually because Wi-Fi can sometimes seem faster due to misconfigured wired settings or driver troubles. Or maybe your Ethernet cable’s knackered. Updating drivers and swapping cables usually sorts it out.
How do I know if my Ethernet cable’s the problem?
Check for obvious damage or try a different, good-quality cable. If speeds pick up, that was likely it.
What if updating drivers doesn’t improve things?
Make sure your network settings are maxed out and check for background apps hogging bandwidth. Sometimes, the driver’s fine but Windows isn’t using it right.
Can upgrading my internet plan help?
Too right. If you’re maxed out on your current plan, bumping up to a faster one usually does the trick.
Are there specific cables I should use for better speed?
Absolutely. Go for Category 6 or higher. Anything less can limit your gigabit speeds.
Summary
- Update your network drivers.
- Set your network to DHCP if you haven’t already.
- Close background apps that use bandwidth.
- Replace old or cheap Ethernet cables.
- Adjust your adapter settings to max supported speed.
Hopefully this helps a few blokes tidy up their Ethernet connection. It’s not always straightforward, but with a bit of patience and trouble-shooting, you’ll get there. Good luck and fingers crossed this gets your speed up!